Meaning & Definition of word "Petty"
to
Petty
/ˈpɛti/
adjective:
- 1. of little importance; trivial.
- Example: She didn't want to get involved in the petty arguments between her coworkers.
- 2. having a mean or spiteful character.
- Example: His petty jealousy caused a rift between friends.
- 3. small or minor in nature.
- Example: The petty details of the contract can be overlooked for now.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'petit' meaning small, little.
Common Phrases and Expressions
petty crime:
A minor crime that is not serious.
petty grievances:
Trivial complaints that are not important.
petty cash:
A small amount of cash kept for minor expenses.
Related Words
pettiness:
the quality of being petty.
petulance:
the quality of being childishly sulky or bad-tempered.
Slang Meanings of petty
Meaning: A term used to describe someone who is overly concerned with trivial matters.
Example Sentence: Don't be so petty about the seating arrangements.
Meaning: Referring to actions or remarks that are small-minded or mean.
Example Sentence: Her petty comments really dampened the mood.